ANA Announces New Leadership Award to Acknowledge Contributions of Debbie Hatmaker

Dear Nurse Leaders: 

I’m excited to share that nominations are now open for the inaugural Debbie Dawson Hatmaker Leadership Award, a tribute to a nurse leader whose example reminds us of what it means to lead with integrity, authenticity, and purpose. 

This award honors the kind of values-based leadership that brings out the best in others, inspires trust, builds community, and drives lasting impact. It recognizes a nurse whose commitment to their team and to the profession strengthens not only outcomes, but also the hearts and minds of those they serve. 

We will present the award at this year’s Magnet & Pathway Conference™, where we’ll shine a light on the honoree’s impact and embodiment of The Power of Nurses™.  

Eligibility: 

• ANA Member or ANA Organizational Affiliate Member 
• >10 years in a leadership position with direct or indirect responsibility for others (i.e. administrative supervisor, professional development, manager, director) 
• Participates in a professional nursing association education program, advocacy efforts, and/or board/committee/task force. 
• Additional consideration given to a nurse leader who has had diverse work experience background 

Key Criteria: 

• Demonstrates values-based leadership including authenticity, integrity, and collaboration.   
• Demonstrates genuine, transparent, and inclusive communication and actions, displaying a commitment to their values.  
• Promotes a strong sense of community and collaboration among team members, leading to improved communication and productivity.  
• Establishes a positive and productive work environment that values integrity and ethical behavior.  
• Builds a strong adaptable team for navigating challenges and adapting to change. 

Nomination Requirements:  

The nominator’s online submission must include the following two (2) documents, uploaded in PDF format: 

1. Narrative Essay 

A narrative (500 words or fewer) written on the nominator’s official organizational letterhead (as applicable), signed, and including the nominator’s full name, credentials, email address, direct phone number, and organization address. 

The essay should clearly explain why the nominee deserves the award, demonstrating the following: 

• The contribution(s) the leader nominee has made in the context of the identified award criteria 
• Clearly delineate the timeline associated with the contribution(s) made by the leader 
• How the leader’s contribution(s) exemplifies values-based excellence in values-based leadership including authenticity, integrity, and collaboration. No more than two distinct examples should be provided. 
• The resulting values-based impact on a group, organization, region, nation and/or world. 

2. Nominee’s resume (single spaced, maximum 3 pages):  

Must include his or her: 

• full contact information 
• educational background 
• work experience 
• professional activities, 
• publications, presentations, or projects within the past five (5) years 

Deadline for Submissions:  September 11, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time 

For more information, email Sejal.Patel@ana.org.  

Submit Your Nomination Here: https://surveys.nursingworld.org/s3/Hatmaker-Award-Nominations  

Let’s take this opportunity to recognize the nurse leaders who inspire us through their values, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence. 

Warm regards, 

	Angela Beddoe Chief Executive OfficerAmerican Nurses Enterprise
	e: angela.beddoe@ana.org  o: +1 (301) 628-5053 ana.org